How should a patient exhibiting signs of stroke be treated immediately?

In cases of a patient exhibiting signs of stroke, the immediate step is to obtain a CT scan and assess for eligibility for thrombolytics. This is crucial because prompt diagnosis and treatment can significantly impact the patient's outcome. Thrombolytic therapy, such as tissue plasminogen activator (tPA), can dissolve blood clots and restore blood flow to the affected area of the brain if administered within a certain time frame from the onset of symptoms. The CT scan helps to distinguish between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, ensuring that thrombolytics are only given when appropriate, as they can worsen a hemorrhagic stroke.

Timeliness is essential in stroke treatment, and while other options such as rehabilitation exercises, administering aspirin, or providing emotional support are important aspects of patient care, they are not the immediate priorities. Initiating rehabilitation exercises can be beneficial but should only take place after the immediate medical interventions are addressed. Administering aspirin and monitoring vital signs has its place, especially in the case of ischemic stroke, but it is not the first step in acute management. Emotional support is important but is secondary to urgent medical needs in such critical situations.